Merapi, Indonesia’s second most active volcano, erupted unexpectedly, spewing hot lava and a column of hot clouds 100 metres into the air.
Merapi Volcano
- Merapi is an active volcano in Indonesia’s Central Java region. Its name translates to “Mountain of Fire” in Javanese.
- It is one of the world’s most active and dangerous volcanoes, with a history of frequent and occasionally violent eruptions.
- The most recent major eruption occurred in 2010, killing over 350 people and causing widespread damage to nearby villages.
- Despite the dangers, hikers and tourists flock to Merapi to marvel at its stunning beauty and geological significance.
Other active volcanoes in Indonesia
- With over 120 active volcanoes spread across the country, Indonesia has a large number of active volcanoes. Other significant volcanoes in Indonesia include:
- Mount Krakatoa is located in the Sunda Strait between the Java and Sumatra islands. It is famous for its 1883 eruption, which was one of the most deadly and destructive volcanic events in recorded history.
- Mount Rinjani is located on the island of Lombok in the province of West Nusa Tenggara. It is Indonesia’s second highest volcano and a popular trekking and hiking destination.
- Mount Tambora is located on the island of Sumbawa in the province of West Nusa Tenggara. It is best known for its 1815 eruption, which was the largest in recorded history, resulting in a “year without summer” in the northern hemisphere.
- Mount Batur is located in Bali Province on the island of Bali. It is a well-known tourist destination for its scenic views and hot springs.
- Mount Merbabu is located in the Central Java province on the island of Java. It is the highest mountain in Central Java and a popular hiking and climbing destination.
Why are there so many volcanoes in Indonesia?
- Indonesia is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, a horseshoe-shaped region of the Pacific Ocean characterised by frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
- The country has the most active volcanoes in the world, more than 120, and has seen some of the deadliest volcanic eruptions in history.
- The government has put in place measures to monitor and prepare for volcanic activity, but the country’s population and infrastructure remain at risk as a result of the frequent eruptions.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/travel-news/indonesias-mount-merapi-volcano-erupts-tourism-halts-due-to-toxic-gas-and-lava-flows/articleshow/98593107.cms#:~:text=Synopsis&text=Mount%20Merapi%2C%20the%20most%20active,several%20villages%20in%20the%20area.